Category Archives: Outdoor Entertaining

When the weather warms and your parties move outdoors, try these simple ideas. Entertaining doesn’t demand any elaborate decor, just simple food, good company, and your patio.

Outdoor Entertaining

Unique Centerpiece Warms the Heart

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Lacosta-Dining Table

Have you ever searched for a centerpiece that is multi-functional?

 If so, you have hit the jackpot with this one. Not only will this outdoor dining table function as a fire pit for you and your friends to gather around, but it can also become a grill or an ice bucket! The Lacosta table’s many functions allow you to create an outdoor dining or entertaining experience that meets your  own personal needs and desires.  Unlike mosaic tops, there are no grout  lines that will crack or mildew. The table tops are easy to maintain, and natural  stone adds value to any home.  Choose from ceramic gas logs or colored glass (Clear, Smoke, or Bronze) for your fire pit.

Backyard Fun, Outdoor Entertaining

Snow in Texas….Where is my heated pool?

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Miracles do Happen!

Miracles do Happen!

Why is it that knowing miracles do actually happen….like making it snow  yesterday in Houston, Texas and today in Jackson MS, that I am now thinking of my backyard pool and how I wish it was 85 degrees and I was on my float soaking up the rays.  It seems the colder I get the more I wish I lived in Florida beachside.  Really, now is the time to start thinking of the improvements you want to make to your pool area so that you will be ready in the late Spring.  Ask yourself – is my pool liner in good shape?  What about that Turbo Twister slide the kids have been wanting? I guess as I begin to make plans for my pool next summer, I will do the next best thing by passing the time away in my portable hot tub out in my backyard.

Environmentally Friendly Ideas, Innovative Solutions, Outdoor Entertaining

Will a Solar Heater really heat my pool?

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Of course! Depending on your weather and climatic conditions, you can expect your solar pool heater to: raise your pool temperature 2 to 5 degrees Fahrenheit each time the water passes through the system, and raise your pool’s temperature 5 to 15 degrees Fahrenheit over a period of several days of good weather. A solar blanket will help hold in this heat at night or when it’s windy, and can help the system be even more effective.

Solar Pool Heaters allow you to take advantage of the sun’s free energy. Solar Heaters are extremely efficient, inexpensive to operate, and are the ultimate in environmental friendliness. When combined with a solar pool cover, also known as a solar blanket, your Solar Pool Heater will maintain a comfortable water temperature well into the cooler months.

Solar pool heating systems are extremely versatile – they can be mounted on the ground, on a rack, or installed on a nearby roof.

If you have a solar pool heating system, do you mount yours on the ground, a rack or on a roof?  Which is better in your opinion?

Outdoor Entertaining

Outdoor Living Spaces Are All The Rage!

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Make The Most of Your Outdoors

The latest trend in decorating is giving your outdoor spaces just as much consideration as you do our indoors.  In a sense, it is time to bring the indoors out!  Now is the time to start thinking about all you want to do to your outdoor living space so that this Spring you can enjoy your friends & family in your inviting patio and/or backyard.

As many downsize due to the tough economic times we are in, they are finding themselves compelled to make the most of their space even their outdoor areas. An inviting outdoor space has become a ‘must have’ feature in even the smallest of living places. Take a look at your outdoor space and while doing so think of how some of these products can add to the ambiance to you home. Some of my favorite items to use outdoors are: Outdoor Rugs, to soften the feel; Decorative Outdoor Fans, to add to your decor and provide relief from the heat; and Outdoor TV’s, to encourage gathering of your friends and family.  Obviously, the list goes on and on, but these are a few of my favorites.

It is truly amazing how making the most of your outdoor spaces makes you feel like you have in a sense, greatly increased the size of your living space.

Holidays & Gift Ideas, Outdoor Entertaining

Outdoor Decorating For The Holidays!

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Holiday Decorating with Garden Torches

Now is the time to decorate for the holidays, but in doing so, don’t forget to pay attention to the ambiance your outdoor spaces create during this season. From wreaths to holiday lights in the front, we seem to stay busy decorating our outdoors. My question is….. are really doing it for those inside… or for those we don’t even know….Me a Grinch…who me …no way!!!!  Seriously, it is time we inspire ourselves to decorate our own outdoor living spaces like decks, patios and backyards to warm the hearts of those who we know and love the most. Try adding some garden torches for light, and an outdoor fireplace for warmth.  Add a little a holiday cheer with some simple greenery with holiday colors like poinsettias to bring in the season.  Now you can sit back and relax and actually take some time to reflect on the true meaning  of the season.  And remember what makes a house a home………comfort, joy and the company of those we hold dear!